Chofu Gegege no Kitaro Town
Chofu transforms into a whimsical world dedicated to Mizuki Shigeru's 'Gegege no Kitaro,' featuring charming yokai statues and themed attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Chofu Gegege no Kitaro Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chofu transforms into a whimsical world dedicated to Mizuki Shigeru's 'Gegege no Kitaro,' featuring charming yokai statues and themed attractions.
"It's a very fun park. If you like Gegege no Kitaro, you'll love this place."
🚶♀️ Yokai Statue Hunt
Keep an eye out for over 177 bronze statues scattered throughout Chofu! It's a fun treasure hunt for fans.
☕ Themed Treats
Don't miss Kitaro Chaya for unique yokai-themed snacks and drinks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kitaro Square
Former railroad tracks area
A playful park where yokai statues double as playground equipment, bringing the characters to life for all ages.
Tenjin-dori Street
Near Chofu Station
Stroll along this street adorned with various Gegege no Kitaro character statues, offering a delightful scavenger hunt for fans.
Kitaro Chaya
Chofu, Tokyo
A charming teahouse offering themed treats and merchandise, perfect for a break and a taste of the yokai world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Yokai Spirit
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Yokai Statue Hunt
Keep an eye out for over 177 bronze statues scattered throughout Chofu! It's a fun treasure hunt for fans.
☕ Themed Treats
Don't miss Kitaro Chaya for unique yokai-themed snacks and drinks. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
Every corner offers a chance to snap photos with your favorite yokai characters.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find all the statues, so wear comfy shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Yokai Statue Hunt
Keep an eye out for over 177 bronze statues scattered throughout Chofu! It's a fun treasure hunt for fans.
☕ Themed Treats
Don't miss Kitaro Chaya for unique yokai-themed snacks and drinks. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
Every corner offers a chance to snap photos with your favorite yokai characters.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to find all the statues, so wear comfy shoes!
🗺️ Explore Beyond
Chofu is where Mizuki Shigeru lived; explore the town to feel his artistic spirit. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Chofu's unique charm, especially for fans of 'Gegege no Kitaro.' The town is praised for its abundance of character statues, the playful Kitaro Square, and the themed experience at Kitaro Chaya. While some find the town small, most appreciate the dedicated atmosphere and the joy of discovering the yokai figures.
"Hearing rumors that there are monsters in Chofu, I set out to look for them...and immediately sensed their aura. And there... GeGeGe! He was there. Then, along the highway...I sensed an even stronger aura! It seemed he was behind it after all. This is Kitaro Square, which opened six years ago on the site of the former railroad tracks. Nurikabe is a climbing partner. The monsters have become playground equipment and are playing with the children. Mizuki Shigeru, the author of GeGeGe no Kitaro, lived in Chofu for over 50 years, and so there are monsters all over the city."
Mayu Michelin
"~When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the light is always beautiful~
When I saw Kitaro, I was reminded of a previous theme song, and I started by singing it like this:
Geh~
Geh~
Geh~
Geh~
Geh~
Geh~
Feed~
Feed feed feed, feed no feed~
Feedˇ ~
Feedˇ ~
Feedˊfeedˊfeedˊ No feedˊ~
Because this phrase is so classic, you have to sing it 10 times.
Geh, Ge ... Gegege no Game
I've just finished another 200-word review of Minatoashi's Google Play."
Yanni Huang
"A very fun park. The toilets were clean and there were a lot of small children. If you like Gegege no Kitaro, you'll love this place."
たかさん
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chofu is easily accessible from central Tokyo. Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station to Chofu Station, which takes about 15-20 minutes. From Chofu Station, you can begin your exploration of the yokai-themed streets. +1
Yes, the main attractions like Tenjin-dori Street and Kitaro Square are within walking distance of Chofu Station. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring on foot to find all the statues.
Chofu sometimes hosts special events, especially around anniversaries. For example, Kitaro Chaya celebrated its 20th anniversary with special goods. Check local event listings before your visit.
While walking is the best way to discover the hidden yokai, local buses are available if you need to cover longer distances within the Chofu area.
The town is well-signed with yokai motifs. Look for the bronze statues along Tenjin-dori Street and head towards Kitaro Square. Maps are often available at the station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the streets with statues and Kitaro Square is free of charge. You only pay for any food, drinks, or merchandise you purchase at places like Kitaro Chaya.
Kitaro Square is an outdoor park and is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific facilities within the park might have their own operating times.
The yokai statues are part of the town's public art and are free to view and photograph. +1
Kitaro Chaya operates during typical cafe hours. It's best to check their specific opening and closing times before your visit, especially if you're aiming for a specific meal or snack. +1
While official guided tours might be limited, the town's layout and the abundance of statues make it easy to explore independently. Many visitors enjoy discovering the characters on their own.
📸 📸 Photography
Tenjin-dori Street with its numerous statues, Kitaro Square with its playful yokai playground, and the themed decorations at Kitaro Chaya are prime photo locations.
Absolutely! Taking photos of the yokai statues is encouraged and a major part of the experience. +1
Generally, there are no restrictions on photography in public areas. However, always be mindful of private establishments like Kitaro Chaya and ask for permission if you're unsure.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the charm of Chofu's yokai. For more artistic shots, a camera with good low-light capabilities can be useful, especially if visiting during dusk.
With over 177 statues, some are more hidden than others. The fun is in the discovery! Keep your eyes peeled as you wander through the streets and parks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kitaro Chaya is the most prominent themed dining spot, offering yokai-inspired treats and drinks. You'll also find various local restaurants and cafes around Chofu Station. +1
Kitaro Chaya offers a menu featuring items inspired by the 'Gegege no Kitaro' characters. Expect unique sweets, drinks, and possibly light meals with a yokai twist.
While Kitaro Chaya's themed menu might be limited, Chofu has a variety of restaurants. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff about vegetarian or vegan options at other local eateries.
Dining at Kitaro Chaya can be moderately priced due to its themed nature. Other local restaurants offer a range of prices, from budget-friendly to more upscale options.
Yes, Kitaro Chaya often sells exclusive anniversary goods and other 'Gegege no Kitaro' merchandise, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the town to find the numerous bronze yokai statues can be turned into an exciting scavenger hunt for kids. The whimsical nature of the characters and the interactive elements make it an engaging experience for younger visitors. Consider a stop at Kitaro Chaya for themed snacks that kids will surely enjoy.
💖 Couples and Art Lovers
Enjoy a romantic outing by exploring the streets hand-in-hand, discovering hidden yokai figures, and perhaps sharing a themed treat at Kitaro Chaya. The town's distinctive atmosphere provides a memorable backdrop for creating shared experiences and appreciating Japanese pop culture.
✨ Solo Travelers and Manga Fans
Engage in the yokai statue hunt, visit Kitaro Chaya for a themed experience, and soak in the atmosphere of the artist's former home. It's a chance to connect with a significant piece of Japanese pop culture history and enjoy a unique urban adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Mizuki Shigeru
Exploring Chofu is like stepping into the world of yokai, the supernatural beings that populate Mizuki's stories. The town's dedication to his art has created a unique atmosphere, attracting fans from around the globe. It's a testament to how art and community can intertwine, preserving and celebrating a beloved cultural icon.
For fans, visiting Chofu is more than just sightseeing; it's a pilgrimage. It's an opportunity to connect with the artist's life and the fantastical world he brought to life. The town's efforts ensure that Mizuki Shigeru's influence continues to be felt and appreciated by new generations.
Discovering the Yokai Statues
These statues aren't just static displays; many are integrated into the urban landscape. You might find them as playground equipment in Kitaro Square, adding a playful element for children, or simply adorning street corners and parks. Each statue offers a delightful surprise and a photo opportunity for fans.
Finding all the statues is part of the adventure. They are strategically placed along streets like Tenjin-dori and in various public spaces. The sheer number and variety ensure that exploring Chofu is an interactive and visually rich experience, celebrating the whimsical and sometimes spooky world of Japanese folklore.
Themed Dining and Shopping
Beyond the culinary delights, Kitaro Chaya also serves as a hub for souvenir shopping. Visitors can find exclusive anniversary goods and other 'Gegege no Kitaro' merchandise, making it an ideal place to pick up unique mementos of their trip. The teahouse itself is often decorated with special exhibits, especially during anniversary celebrations.
While Kitaro Chaya is the main themed establishment, the surrounding areas of Chofu offer a variety of other dining options. From local eateries to cafes, visitors can find diverse culinary experiences. However, for those seeking the full 'Gegege no Kitaro' immersion, Kitaro Chaya remains the central point for themed food and shopping.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit